Red Butte Garden announces new speaker series

SALT LAKE CITY– Red Butte Garden announced a new speaker series called Cultivating Wisdom and Wonder on Wednesday. 

According to a press release, the presentations will introduce “ongoing conversations about challenges and opportunities in local and global environments.”

Four speakers will provide presentations, offering their knowledge and understanding of the world of plants and how they impact humans, our communities, and Earth, per the press release. 

“This exciting new series brings internationally known authors and experts to Utah to help us engage in some of today’s most pressing questions about life and our world,” said Jasmine Millard, the adult programs manager at Red Butte Garden. 

Additionally, Red Butte Garden said that advance registration is required to attend. More information can be found on the arboretum’s event website. 

Authors, artists, and executives to speak

The series will begin on March 26. It will feature presentations from artists, authors, and executive directors alike. 

Firstly, Kathryn Aalto, a New York Times bestselling author, will give two presentations. She will kick off the series with a presentation on the real-life outdoor scenery that inspired the world that Winnie the Pooh lives in. Then, she will present a writing workshop focused on nature-oriented narrative nonfiction. 

Next, Ross Shrigley, the executive director of Colorado-based nonprofit Plant Select will present on water-efficient gardening. Shrigley will share details on the latest in environmentally conscious landscaping in the Intermountain West, according to the press release. 

Thirdly, world-renowned topiary artist Mike Gibson will give two presentations on the art of topiary. Red Butte Garden’s press release said he will share the therapeutic benefits of artfully pruning shrubs. 

Finally, author Ian Williams will give a presentation on how nature can guide us on our journey inward. His book, titled Soil and Spirit, was featured on Forbes Magazine’s list of inspirational books for leaders. 

“As the place where Utahns of all ages come to connect with plants and the beauty of living landscapes, Red Butte Garden is the ideal setting for deeper conversations that will educate and inspire. If you care about plants, living landscapes, or your family’s well-being, you won’t want to miss a single one,” said Millard. 

Related: A beautiful waterwise garden in the backyard